As
a result of the very positive public responses and predicted economic
benefits for Melksham, co-ordinators of the Melksham Link Project have
recently been looking at the option of widening the scope of possible
canal-side developments when the new waterway is developed. Outline
suggestions include residential developments, a marina, recreational
areas, a visitor centre and wildlife areas.
Spokesman for the Wilts & Berks Canal Trust, Paul Lenaerts, said:
“These ideas are very much at the outline stage only. There will
obviously need to be a great deal of discussion and negotiation with
landowners, local councils and statutory authorities, as well as
consultations with the local community.
“However, the concept of widening the scope of the project to include
recreational and wildlife areas, as well as residential developments,
is very exciting, and would present more opportunities for community
involvement and leisure activities.
“The Economic Benefit Study, produced last spring, predicted an annual
benefit to Melksham’s economy of between £2 million and £3 million
based on the original development plans. The more ambitious ideas would
significantly increase these predictions, but would require
co-operation from all stakeholders.”
The planning application for the construction of the waterway itself
was submitted in September 2012. There were many responses from the
public in support of the scheme, plus a few objections, and after all
environmental, engineering and archaeological studies have been
completed, it is hoped that consent for the Melksham Link will be given
in spring 2015. When planning consent is granted the Trust intends to
start work on two phases to implement the scheme: the new junction with
the Kennet & Avon Canal at Semington, and the hydro scheme for
Melksham weir. Agreements with landowners and funding for the scheme
are still to be finalised.
The Melksham Independent News will make every effort to ensure that
residents are kept informed of developments in this very exciting
project which will have such an impact on the future of the town and
its surroundings.
|